Australia, five-time champions, discovered themselves at 91-7 whereas chasing 292 in Mumbai. They seemed to be on the point of becoming a member of the checklist of notable groups overwhelmed by Afghanistan on this version, alongside title-holders England, 1996 winners Pakistan, and 1992 World Cup champions Sri Lanka.
Nonetheless, Maxwell, who was given a reprieve when dropped on 33, responded magnificently underneath testing circumstances.He concluded the match together with his 10th six, reaching a World Cup double hundred and changing into solely the third batsman in historical past to achieve this milestone within the match.
Maxwell had his possibilities and he made full use of it by making a mockery of Afghanistan bowling who put the Aussies underneath the pump proper from the beginning of their chase.
“It will have been good if it was a chanceless knock, however I had my possibilities, to profit from it tonight was one thing I will be pleased with. Wonderful, after the primary two video games, individuals have been fast to jot down us off. The idea was all the time there (as a staff), after as we speak, it might have gone a bit larger,” Maxwell stated on the publish match presentation.
“It was sizzling whereas fielding as we speak, I have not accomplished plenty of train within the warmth, it received a maintain on me as we speak. I wished to remain again and get some motion (on my legs).
“Not an excessive amount of (when requested about plans at 92/7), simply stick with the batting plans as a lot as doable, for me, nonetheless be constructive, nonetheless look to play my photographs, that LBW, it was going simply above (the stumps), most likely that made me be extra proactive. A touch of swing and nip (off the floor), because it occurs right here underneath lights, they bowled superbly to take advantage of that,” Maxwell added.
Australia vs Afghanistan: Glenn Maxwell’s ‘Superhuman’ innings seals nail-biting victory over Afghanistan for Australia
Maxwell struck a complete of 21 boundaries and despatched the ball over the boundary rope 10 instances. Remarkably, many of those boundaries have been scored whereas he was struggling on one leg.
Whereas Maxwell displayed this excellent efficiency, Pat Cummins stayed not out on 12 runs from 68 deliveries. Their unbroken eighth-wicket partnership was vital, accumulating a complete of 202 runs, essential in steering Australia to an sudden however spectacular win.
